The Serai

Surrounded by one hundred private acres of scrubland, The Serai truly feels like its own private world of desert luxury. Camel safaris into the sand dunes are a popular pursuit, while the bustling bazaars and ancient temples of Jaisalmer are close by.

The Serai’s accommodations take the form of 21 luxurious tents pitched on Jaisalmer stone, with outdoor verandas, covered living rooms and spacious bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. The Luxury Tented Suites feature their own private plunge pool, surrounded by sandstone walls, which is candlelit at night and can be heated on request. The ultra-exclusive Royal Tented Suite is set in its own private encampment, with a spa, heated outdoor pool, and separate tents to dine and lounge in – you even get your own personal butler.

Authentic, traditional Rajasthani cuisine and sumptuous local delicacies are served up alongside western dishes as part of an ever-changing menu at The Serai. Varied breakfasts could include Indian dishes like masala omelette, with traditional thalis and international dishes on offer for lunch and dinner. There’s a designated indoor dining room in the same tent as the reception, but you can choose to eat in your tent, on your veranda, or anywhere else on the estate.

The Serai’s indulgent Sujan spa, provided by Raison d’Etre, is spread across four spacious tents within a walled garden. Products used are blended from Indian herbs and spices, and a wide range of treatments and massages are available which draw on ancient Indian wisdom and techniques. There is also a beautiful outdoor infinity pool, where you can cool off with a dip as you gaze out into the nothingness of the desert.

The Serai’s location makes it equally suited for excursions deep into the Thar Desert and trips to the region’s bustling capital, the fort town of Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer Fort, a honey-coloured sandstone citadel rising majestically from the desert, dates from the 12^th century and remains the bustling centre of town, a unique living museum which is great for picking up souvenirs and handicrafts or just soaking up the atmosphere. One quirk of the fort is its concentration of Jain temples, dating from as far back as the 16^th century. Camel safaris departing from the hotel are a great way to experience the sand dunes and wildlife of the Thar Desert, including the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard.